Magic Johnson likes Bulls over LeBron's Cavs in East

Video: Thibodeau needs to be flexible with Bulls

Chicago Tribune sports editor Joe Knowles and sports columnist Steve Rosenbloom discuss the return of Derrick Rose to the Bulls, new acquisitions and how coach Tom Thibodeau needs to work with the team.

Chicago Tribune sports editor Joe Knowles and sports columnist Steve Rosenbloom discuss the return of Derrick Rose to the Bulls, new acquisitions and how coach Tom Thibodeau needs to work with the team.

Tribune report

Don't crown the Cleveland Cavaliers just yet.

At least one NBA legend thinks LeBron James' move from Miami to Cleveland sets up a new pecking order in the Eastern Conference--with the Bulls on top.

Los Angeles Lakers great Magic Johnson tweeted, "With all the moves being made in NBA Free Agency the Top 4 teams in the East are: 1. Bulls 2. Cavs 3. Pacers 4. Wizards."

Not only does Johnson give the Bulls the nod, the Heat fall completely out of the running to win the conference in his estimation. Few would argue that the domino effect of James' departure and subsequent moves in free agency has significantly affected the balance of power in the East.

The Washington Wizards, who gave the Bulls all they can handle during the playoffs, will be a threat with continued growth of John Wall and Bradley Beal and veteran influence of new addition Paul Pierce. The Heat have been the only obstacle between Indiana and the NBA Finals, and while the Pacers could take a step back if Lance Stephenson leaves, they still have the league's top defense.

Landing James vaults the Cavaliers into anyone's top five--conference or league--and pushes fast forward on the development of young stars like Kyrie Irving, Dion Waiters and Andrew Wiggins--if the latter isn't traded for Kevin Love.

The Bulls' moves aren't nearly as sexy as some other teams' draft picks and signings but arguably could yield the greatest improvement. Pau Gasol, Nikola Mirotic and rookie Doug McDermott--along with the return of Derrick Rose--suddenly add scoring to a team that ranked last in that category last season.

With all the moves being made in NBA Free Agency the Top 4 teams in the East are: 1. Bulls 2. Cavs 3. Pacers 4. Wizards